Tuscan Chicken Alfredo with Spinach

If you’re craving a comforting, creamy pasta dish that bursts with flavor and a touch of greenery, look no further than Tuscan Chicken Alfredo with Spinach. This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken breasts with a luscious Alfredo sauce enriched with Parmesan and garlic, perfectly complemented by fresh spinach. It’s a quick yet impressive meal that you can whip up any night of the week, bringing a little taste of Tuscany right to your table.

Why It Works Every Time

This Tuscan Chicken Alfredo with Spinach recipe hits all the right notes. The key is balance: the creamy, cheesy sauce envelops the fettuccine while the garlic and Italian seasoning add depth and warmth. Chicken breasts cook quickly and stay moist thanks to the olive oil sear, creating a perfect protein base. Fresh spinach adds vibrant color and a nutritional boost without overpowering the dish. Plus, the Parmesan cheese naturally thickens the sauce, ensuring a rich, velvety finish. This dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough for weeknights but elegant enough for guests.

The Ingredient Lineup

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The star protein, tender and flavorful.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For searing the chicken and flavor depth.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Adds aromatic richness to the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a luxuriously creamy Alfredo sauce.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – The salty, nutty backbone of the sauce.
• 8 ounces fettuccine pasta – Classic pasta that holds the sauce beautifully.
• 2 cups fresh spinach – For freshness, color, and a healthy touch.
• Salt, to taste – Enhances all the flavors.
• Pepper, to taste – Adds a subtle kick.
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning – Brings in that signature Tuscan herb blend.

Appliances & Accessories

• Large pot for boiling pasta – Make sure it’s big enough for the fettuccine to cook evenly.
• Large skillet or sauté pan – For cooking the chicken and Alfredo sauce in one pan.
• Colander – To drain the pasta once it’s perfectly al dente.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – To stir the sauce without scratching your pans.
• Grater – Freshly grate your Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
• Knife and cutting board – For prepping your chicken and garlic.

Tuscan Chicken Alfredo with Spinach: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package directions until al dente—usually around 10-12 minutes. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.

Step 3: Build the Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Slowly stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 4: Add the Spinach and Combine

Toss the fresh spinach into the sauce and stir until wilted, which takes about 2 minutes. Return the sliced chicken to the skillet and nestle it into the sauce. Add the cooked fettuccine and gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is thoroughly coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve this Tuscan Chicken Alfredo with Spinach hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Low-Carb/Keto Alternatives

• Swap fettuccine for zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles to reduce carbs.
• Use cauliflower rice as a base instead of pasta for a grain-free option.
• Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free, keto-friendly twist.
• Add extra spinach or other low-carb veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for bulk.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

• Be sure to not overcook the chicken breasts to keep them juicy and tender.
• Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and adds more flavor than pre-grated varieties.
• Adding reserved pasta water to the sauce helps achieve the perfect silky texture.
• For an extra Tuscan touch, try stirring in sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much. This dish doesn’t freeze well because the cream sauce can separate when thawed, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and tend to stay even juicier during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they’re fully cooked through.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a plant-based Parmesan alternative. Keep in mind this will slightly change the flavor profile but will still be delicious.

How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from getting too thick?

Adding a bit of reserved pasta water or more cream while stirring will help maintain a smooth, creamy consistency without it becoming gluey.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and sauce components in advance, but it’s best to combine and serve the dish fresh. This helps preserve the creamy texture and freshness of the spinach.

Try These Next

• Creamy Roasted Garlic Spinach Ziti – Another creamy, comforting pasta packed with garlic and spinach goodness.
• Honey Mustard Chicken Bowtie Pasta – A tangy, sweet variation featuring tender chicken and bowtie pasta.
• Creamy Spinach Feta Chicken Orzo – A Mediterranean-inspired dish with creamy sauce, spinach, and tangy feta cheese.

Next Steps

Now that you have a foolproof recipe for Tuscan Chicken Alfredo with Spinach, consider experimenting with the flavors by adding your favorite herbs or swapping out the pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options. This recipe’s versatility makes it a fantastic base for countless variations. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or cooking for a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy those creamy pasta cravings.

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